Join our board as a non-exec director

Are you passionate about making a real difference for the environment and reducing carbon emissions in Selsey and Sidlesham? If so, we encourage you to think about applying to become a volunteer non-exec Director of Board of Ferry Farm Community Solar.

Why join us?

As a volunteer Director, you'll join a dedicated team of like-minded individuals to help oversee and shape the future of our organisation and drive meaningful impact. We are seeking locally rooted people to help promote the community enterprise and develop its local impact.

About Ferry Farm Community Solar

Ferry Farm Community Solar is a not-for-profit community benefit society which owns a 5MW community solar array sitting between Selsey and Sidlesham, West Sussex. It has been generating electricity and income from the sun since June 2016. Surplus income from the solar farm is used to support local community organisations and projects in Selsey and Sidlesham. The enterprise is expected to generate around £2million to support local community projects over its lifetime.

The solar farm is funded through a £5million 15-year loan from Triodos Bank and £1.15million of community investment from a share offer in 2016 and a bond offer in 2020. It generates revenue from the sale of electricity to the grid and a feed-in tariff subsidy.

The surplus income from the solar farm—after covering operating and finance costs—is reinvested into supporting local net zero transition and fuel poverty projects, including:

A community grants fund with £25,000 available each year to support local community-led energy, climate change and environmental education projects.
An energy advice and fuel poverty service managed by Selsey Money in partnership with the National Energy Foundation. This service supports individuals and families in Selsey and Sidlesham with energy debts, home visits and grants for energy-efficient measures.
Solar for schools and community buildings through our ‘Solar Soft Loan’ Scheme. Supporting local organisations that would not have the funds to do it themselves, to install solar panels, LED lighting and other energy-saving measures. Repayments are based on a share of the actual annual savings and FFCS will use capital repaid to create an ongoing revolving legacy fund.
Solar farm visits for local schools in partnership with an educational charity.
Funding for energy efficiency and retrofit surveys. 80% funding for domestic retrofit surveys and full funding for schools and community buildings in Selsey and Sidlesham, helping to make these spaces cosier, healthier and more energy efficient.

Ferry Farm Community Solar is professionally managed by Communities for Renewables CIC (CfR).

The Role of a Non-Executive Director

Attend quarterly board meetings (around 1-2 hours) covering technical performance and operation of the solar farm, financial performance and community impact.
Provide a creative contribution to the board by offering independent oversight, guidance and local knowledge, input and connections.
Participate in decisions put to the board – which will include approving the annual accounts, company policies, operational budgets and contractor and team appointments.
Help develop and oversee Ferry Farm Community Solar’s local impact.

Time commitment & support

You will receive comprehensive support from Communities for Renewables CIC (CfR), which manages administrative tasks and day-to-day management of the solar farm, allowing you to focus on making a positive impact.

Directors will need to attend four board meetings a year, review materials and respond to urgent matters as necessary. Appointments are for two years, with a review after 6 months. Directors may be reappointed. While most meetings are held online, occasional in-person gatherings will take place in the Selsey and Sidlesham area.

How to get Involved

Click the link to read the full Volunteer Non-exec Director role brief.

Download, complete and return the application form

For more information, to express your interest or to return the application form, please contact Jake Burnyeat at jakeburnyeat@cfrcic.co.uk or call 01209 705 423. We’ll then arrange a brief introductory call to discuss further.